how to buy your costume at the hardware store

When it comes to Halloween costume shopping, the early bird pretty much always gets the worm. So we rounded up a few clever last-minute ideas for costumes you can make from the most unexpected materials. Take a look!

by Anna Kocharian

1

the olympic rings

This might be about as no-fuss as a group costume could possibly get. Simply wrap the rubber hoops in pvc tape, with colors corresponding to the rings, gather four friends, and you’re done!

what you'll need:

PVC Tape

Rubber Hoop Cover

what you'll need:

paint chips in various shades of gray

wire ring

steps

Fold each paint chip in half and cut into a semicircle.

Fasten the leaves onto the wire ring, until it’s covered entirely.

2

50 shades of gray

We’ve seen the typical paint chip covered dress our shirt, but this unique wreath (or crown!) breathes a bit of fresh life to the punny costume.

3

dungeon ghost

Wrap yourself in a 15 ft chain and get ready to be the spooky (after) life of the party.

what you'll need:

Welded Chain

PVC Tape

steps

Trace the outline of the arms and legs with a thin piece of black PVC tape.

4

stick figure

This infamous figure comes to life in a hilarious and clever DIY.

what you'll need:

Painter's Overall

5

minion

Channel these ultra adorable characters with just a few simple staples!

what you'll need:

hard hat

goggles

overalls

6

crazy straw

This 90s staple is making a comeback. Customize yours by running a vibrant ribbon through the length of the tube.

what you'll need:

Vinyl Tubing

steps

Simply wrap around your body.

7

statue of liberty

In a bind? Transform yourself into Lady Liberty with just a simple strand of copper wire.

steps

Using a headband as a base, twist the wire into baseless triangles, and fasten atop the headband.